One to two weeks after surgery, you will meet with a nurse practitioner who will check your incision and cardiopulmonary status. Your nurse will let you know if you need further tests or evaluation.

Cardiologist: 6-8 weeks after surgery

A report of your surgery and your progress during your hospital stay will be sent to your cardiologist after you leave the hospital. As soon as you return home from the hospital, call your cardiologist to make a follow-up appointment. Your appointment should be six to eight weeks after your surgery.

At this appointment, your cardiologist will determine how well you are healing, as well as give you instructions on medications, resuming activities, driving, and returning to work. You will also be scheduled for future follow-up visits.

Any time before your appointments, you should call your doctor if you:

Experience chest pain or discomfort similar to what you felt before surgery.